Eczema on the back

Back eczema is not very common, but it can seriously affect quality of life because of the itching and difficulty in accessing this area of skin.

Who is affected by back eczema?

Eczema on the back can affect babies, children and adults. Back eczema can affect the upper back and shoulders, the lower back and buttocks, or the whole back.

It's hard to scratch when you have eczema on the back. Babies rub against sheets, but older children and adults can hardly scratch against a wall or a tree!

What causes back eczema?

Eczema on the back can be caused by atopic dermatitis and can occur in addition to other eczema plaques on the body.

Back eczema can be the result of contact eczema. A common example is bra clips, which often contain one or more metallic elements. In this case, back eczema occurs in a very specific area. Lower back eczema can result from allergic contact with a belt or underwear elastic.

Eczema on the back is promoted by factors such as perspiration and friction. Avoid letting hair products run down your back when you rinse them, as this can promote the development of eczema plaques on the back.

What is the best treatment for back eczema?

In the event of eczema plaques on the back, it is difficult to treat it on your own. It is better to get help! After showering, on a clean and dry back, apply the cortisone cream prescribed by your physician to the red, rough and itchy plaques. Everywhere else, apply an emollient to soften and hydrate the skin.

If contact eczema is suspected, allergy tests can be carried out, on the back!